At the Movies

In thinking about what to choose for today, I thought a comedy would be in order, especially considering the very uncomical impending weather. And since today is April Fool’s Day, this movie, with its fun twists of gender bender mistaken identities and roleplaying is perfect.

Victor Victoria is the classic 1982 gem by the brilliant, late Blake Edwards, who both wrote and directed the film. A musical comedy of the sort that just isn’t made any more, it is a winner in every category. Julie Andrews, totally shedding her Mary Poppins/Sound of Music personae, plays Victoria, a penniless singer desperately looking for work in 1934 Paris.

She soon meets Toddy, Robert Preston’s marvelous characterization of a flamboyant gay emcee. Together they dream up a fabulous unique nightclub act that becomes the toast of all Paris.

With wonderful music by Henry Mancini, for which he won an Oscar, and elegant production design by Rodger Maus, the nightclub acts are show stopping spectacles. Blake made full use of his wife’s amazing range and Andrews’ singing performances are duly impressive. Add to that the charming chemistry between her and Preston, the witty and sophisticated repartee and you have some magical moments that are triumvirates of production, writing, and composition.

And if that weren’t enough, add to the mix memorable performances by James Garner, Lesley Ann Warren (in a hysterical Judy Holiday type role) and Alex Karras and you have a pretty unbeatable combination. This is a totally fun romp that I guarantee will deliver two hours of delightful laugh out loud entertainment. I wish there were more musical films being made of this caliber these days.

Here’s a little peek. Have fun!!

18 thoughts on “At the Movies

  1. I only have seen a piece of this movie! Now you made me curious to watch the entire movie!!
    Thank you so much for all your lovely comments on my blog my friend!
    I wish you a wonderful weekend!
    xx
    Greet

  2. some of the stills look vaguely familiar and and prompt an overall good memory. You always make the perfect selection. This is a weekend for staying in – is more snow even possible??

  3. Oh heavens, I haven’t seen it in forever and makes me want to add this to the Netflix queue! I had forgotten how completely fabulous Robert Preston was, not to mention everyone else.

    Thank you for the reminder, and Happy Weekend to you!
    tp

  4. This is the first time I hear about this movie and it sounds like something I would love to watch! Enjoy your Friday, my dear. Happy 1st day of April:) Muah

  5. love this movie -and such a small world. A friend had never seen it so we had a screening just last week (or was it 2 weeks ago?). Anyway -he LOVED it – hilarious movie!

  6. As you say this is a classic, and perfect for an April Fool’s viewing! Have a great weekend!

  7. I remember enjoying this movie when it came out – especially a very funny restaurant scene — a great pick!

  8. This is such a good one for all the reasons you highlight Stacey! I will have to re-watch very soon! Hoping you are having a fabulous Friday!

    xo Mary Jo

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *